DUBBUG Ride Report 10 March 2013
With several cyclists holidaying away from home and some inopportune showers immediately prior to departure ride numbers were meagre today. Tim had already turned for home after experiencing two punctures en route to the start line. Quality, however, is usually more important than quantity so the committed band set off for Coffs Harbour from Urunga on a 65km round trip. Rain stayed away and the cool, still conditions were perfect for cycling.
A steady pace was maintained along the highway to Coffs. It was decided that a coffee stop at Home Base was necessary so that the surprise visit to our president in hospital after his life-changing lower spine surgery would not be too early. Herb received his complimentary computing tutorial from Betty Ann over coffee while we later found George conducting his life most efficiently from his bedside using a tablet – just what the doctor prescribed.
El Presidente was sitting up looking too perky for a man who experienced surgery less than 48 hours ago and who may have ended up in a wheelchair if things did not go according to plan.
Wine with dinner, private room, surgeon visits on Sunday; clearly George was not a public patient. No wonder the health system is straining the nation’s finances.
The ride home along the Pacific Hwy was uneventful with riders sharing the lead into a light breeze. All in all a very pleasant Sunday ride was enjoyed by everyone with the moderate exercise and good company illustrating the benefits of riding as a group.